The Dual Language Assessment (DLA) Team assists school staff in the referral and assessment of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse/Limited English Proficient (CLD/LEP) students who may require special education instruction and/or related services.

The DLA Team is a multi-disciplinary team. Its core positions include: Speech/Language Pathologist, Special Education Specialist, Guidance Counselor, ESOL Diagnostician/Resource Teacher, and Secretary.

The DLA Team also provides other forms of support to CLD/LEP students, parents, and teachers. Assistance may include: advocacy for appropriate services; native language counseling referrals; information on community resources and extra-curricular activities; explanation of student/parent rights and procedural safeguards related to the special education process; and, education on acculturation issues. These services will be provided on a case by case basis, as appropriate.

Important Note: although the DLA Team may provide consultation and/or assessment assistance, the School Instructional Team (SIT) and/or Supplemental Services Team (SST) continues to be responsible for the overall case management of the referred student.

In-service training regarding the DLA Team’s purpose and procedures is available for school personnel. An informational and procedural handbook, “Addressing the Special Needs of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students,” has been drafted by the team and will be available as a resource for school and administrative staff.